Use sunscreen when in the sun. Xolos are generally healthy but can suffer from. Xolos have been around for many years – about 3,000 to be exact. Often referred to as the first dog of America, the Xoloitzcuintli temperament is happy and adaptable. Their observant nature extends to family and they are often referred to as the empaths of the doggy world for their keen ability to decipher human moods. There are accounts from early Spanish settlers of Zolo’s being slaughtered for banquets and other special occasions including weddings and funerals. They feel like if they don’t jump at every little noise, then they won’t be ready to jump when the moment strikes when they should. (It also makes his hugs all the more affectionate by helping him grip you tighter!). They base this on the dog’s warm, soft skin, which they believe is brimming with healing energy. • Hardy and healthy breed, possessing no known breed-related health concerns. Genetic studies have revealed that the Xoloitzcuintli is a true old-world dog and is more closely related to the domesticated dogs that crossed the Siberian land bridge than the ones that traveled with explorers. They are quick learners and make excellent watchdogs. What to Consider Before Bringing Home a Xoloitzcuintli Activity Level. As a smart and intelligent dog, the Xoloitzcuintli is quick at catching new tricks and commands which makes training easy. They get along fairly well with other dogs and pets. The Xolo tends to react in response to his primary instincts, but ironically, he actually prefers to have some kind of structure in his life. As a primitive breed, Xoloitzcuintli may be somewhat independent natured. It continues to be a rare sight in the dog show circuit to this day. This may be related to nerves, or it could just be because he’s cold! Interestingly, the gene that causes hairlessness in this breed is a dominant trait, meaning that the dog only needs to inherit one copy of the gene in order to be born without hair. There are a few issues to be aware of, however, especially if you choose a breeder that is less reputable than desired. They are very playful, so make a great playmate for them. Therefore they should be supervised closely and small kids should be taught to behave around them. However, they are not likely to bite while in aggression but if it becomes too much they will not hesitate to do so. The first Xolo didn’t compete in the Westminster Dog Show until 2012. And, in some cases, all you may really need is a damp cloth to wipe him down – a bath may not even be necessary. But once the Xolo outgrows his puppyhood, he usually calms down and requires less strenuous exercise. The Xolo was recognized early on by the AKC starting in 1887 but was dropped from the official list in 1959 due to a lack of registered dogs. Essentially, they are out of that pesky puppy stage! What to Consider Before Bringing Home a Xoloitzcuintli, The Cardigan Welsh Corgi – Ultimate Breed Information Guide, 15 Things You Should Know Before Getting A Pomapoo (A Pomeranian Poodle Mix), Colors: All colors and coats are seen with darker varieties being more common, Activity level: High as puppies, low as adults. Haired Xoloitzcuintlis are also fairly easy to care for. The only possible thing that can make them aggressive is if someone provokes them or tease them unnecessarily. While these dogs are most famed for their lack of hair, it is important to note that each litter of Xoloitzcuintlis will contain both haired and hairless dogs. Temperament & Personality The Xoloitzcuintlis have quite an unusual look, with a quiet but attentive personality. They were often found in the works of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Finding a good Xolo breeder will require time and research. Xolo’s can be an escape artist! Do your research and you will surely find the perfect Xoloitzcuintli breeder. They make excellent companion dogs with moderate exercise and grooming needs. If you choose a hairless dog, you are less likely to develop an allergic reaction because there’s no hair to be allergic to! • Skin Problems can arise with both neglect or over-bathing. It is not uncommon to find hundreds of these dogs in ancient burial sites. When it comes to smaller furry or feathery family members such as cats, rodents, and birds, most Xolos do well when introduced to these animals as puppies. However, they have very sensitive skin and some small children might play rough and hurt them. They do like to please, but they’re also independent thinkers. They enjoy their family company and loves spending time with them. And, of course, be sure to supervise him while he’s out there. Their ancestors lived in what is present-day Mexico and survived the rise and fall of many ancient civilizations. This affectionate breed loves nothing more than cuddling with you on the couch. And, of course, if you’re going to take him for a walk in the winter, make sure to bundle him up. Once they reach about two years of age, though, they tend to calm down and are known for being reserved and quiet, especially in the house. In fact, some Xolos are alert to the point of becoming high-strung. Xoloitzcuintli dogs are highly adaptable. Although a lot of reputable breeders have websites, red flags include multiple litters at their house, puppies always being available and if you are able to pay online with a credit card. The Xolo’s tendency to rely on his instincts may kick in if he feels the need to escape. They are happy when involved in a regular family activity. Though they dipped in popularity shortly after, they recently made a comeback – being re-recognized in the American Kennel Club in 2011. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/101561334@N08/9770818933/). A Xoloitzcuintli for sale will cost around $600-$800. They are very aware of the activity in the surrounding and make a great watchdog. A Final Word about the Xoloitzcuintli Temperament, Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos, 6 Harrier Dog Temperament Traits and Must Know Info (Puppies, Adoption, Breeders, etc), Understanding The Flat-Coated Retriever Temperament and More. These same genetic studies confirmed that the Xolo and Chinese Crested, the most famous of hairless breeds, are not directly related. These hairless wonders can be as small as a Chihuahua or as large as a Dalmatian. When you buy a Xolo puppy, you are committing to two types of activity levels. The assumption is, that around 3,500 years ago, a spontaneous mutation occurred in one of the dogs living with the Olmec people of ancient Mexico. They lived for years in the jungles of Mexico hunting and running in packs with other Xoloitzcuintlis and ancient street dogs, and most tend to enjoy this same pack behavior today. Not sure this dog of the gods is right for your household? Just make sure that you exercise him in a yard that you have properly fenced in or otherwise secured. The Aztecs referred to it as the “dog of the gods” and believed these dogs were a gift from Xolotl, the God of the afterlife. Especially during training, you should refrain from yelling or spanking him, as these harsh punishments will only scare him and ultimately cause him to distrust you. In addition to being valued as a living pet, these dogs were often used as sacrifices to protect their owners in the afterlife. The first domesticated canines in the Americas followed humans over the land bridge between Alaska and Siberia over 9,000 years ago. This breed is not a great choice for cold climates, as even the haired variety have very short coats and are prone to shivering and shaking in cool weather. They are highly intelligent but take patience and ingenuity to train. Despite being around for thousands of years, the breed did not get official recognition as a breed in Mexico until 1950. Younger coated Xolos can suffer from adolescent acne and may need special care. The Xoloitzcuintli get along with children very well as they are loving and kind with them. They enjoy cuddling with their humans but are also fairly independent overall. This Wild Beast Needs Taming. He likes to give you as much affection as he desires from you – so you can tell by how much he gives you that he wants a lot of attention! The Xoloitzcuintli price depends on your location, litter availability, and lineage. Some of these links are affiliate links where we may earn commissions on purchases. As a rarity, the hairless descendants of this first bald dog were revered by ancient indigenous people. The haired variety looks very similar to the average street dog and comes in a wide variety of colors, making it hard to distinguish them from stray dogs in Mexico. Note: if you agree that your health and your dog’s health should be a top priority then get a copy of The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health. Despite being around for thousands of years, the Xolo didn’t even appear in dog show rings in its native Mexico until the late 1940s. Whether you choose a hairless Xoloitzcuintli or Xoloitzcuintli with hair, be prepared to be stopped on the street. Today, this breed’s numbers still remain quite low outside of Mexico and those that are lucky enough to own a Xolo often pay the price for that rarity in the form of constant questions and adorations from passersby. Therefore, make sure your fence is high and/or that you have a gate in place to keep him in the yard where he belongs. General Characteristics of the Xoloitzcuintli, Health Issues Common to the Xoloitzcuintli Breed. As a puppy ages, this hide becomes thicker and darker and is very resistant to injury and sunburn. Sadly, if a puppy inherits the hairless gene from both parents, it is fatal and the pup will not develop. Aside from missing some teeth, even the hairless variety tends to be robust and long-lived. In addition to coming in three different sizes, the Xoloitzcuintli comes in two varieties: hairless or coated. “Mexico_30” by Lester Gibson / CC BY-SA 2.0. Hairless Xolos will require sunscreen if they will be in the sun for long periods of time. What are the Xoloitzcuintli Health Issues you Must Know? These warm-bodied dogs were known to help with anything from insomnia to toothaches to asthma. Xoloitzcuintli adoption is right for you if are in the market for an adult Xolo or perhaps a Xolo with special needs. For one thing, if you’ve never owned a dog before, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is the better choice, hands down. There are close to ten true hairless dog breeds in the world with most originating in the Americas. They love long walks and games of fetch in the backyards. Learn more about this unique breed from one passionate breeder in the above video. Unlike other hairless breeds, this dog is considered to have a hide rather than normal skin. For example, they should know the breed’s temperament and health issues. – when raised with them. Doggy Dan is an expert Dog Trainer based in New Zealand. Many also believed the dogs held healing powers and would protect the home from evil spirits.